Feb. 24--The Bulls improved to 36-21 Monday with their 87-71 home victory over the Bucks. Here are three observations.
Derrick Rose could be president of the Tony Snell Fan Club.
Rose has been consistently singing Snell's praises since his first breakout game in place of then-injured Mike Dunleavy. Rose, obviously, sees the benefits of Snell's ability to space the floor. As Rose said, even if Snell doesn't continue at the Korver-like 55 percent clip from 3-point range that he has produced in February, his mere presence keeps defenses honest and lanes open.
Tom Thibodeau has cited Snell's need for consistency and plenty of moments remain where Snell's decision-making or lack of physicality remain. However, Snell runs the floor hard, is a long defender and the Bulls' halfcourt offense runs smoother with the floor spread.
Thibodeau did say Snell would remain in the rotation even upon the return of Kirk Hinrich, who could shift into his preferred 18-24 minute range.
Joakim Noah continues to look more active.
In the 11 games since the Bulls' emotional leader declared himself feeling better than he had physically all season, Noah has grabbed double-digit rebounds in eight games and nine rebounds in another.
Noah's 16 rebounds versus the Bucks gave him four straight double-digit rebound games and contributed to the Bulls' 62-41 advantage. The 62 rebounds marked a Bulls' season high.
"I'm feeling good, but I still think there's a lot of room for improvement," Noah said.
Pau Gasol didn't force any offense.
When Gasol sank a 19-foot jumper on the first possession, thoughts of his career-high 46-point effort in the Bulls' last meeting against the Bucks surfaced. Instead, Gasol recognized the Bucks double-teaming him on almost every touch and took only nine shots in just over 29 minutes.
Gasol still posted his league-leading 37th double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. But his ability to recognize the double-team and move the ball led to better shots, even if the Bulls didn't take advantage with a poor offensive night at 35.5 percent shooting.
